Authors : Michael L. Hackett

Volume/Issue : Volume 9 - 2024, Issue 10 - October

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/bdewxnsa

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/69kddchv

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/IJISRT24OCT1231

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : This research investigates the drainage challenges and flood risks in three areas of Guyana: Williamsburg-Hampshire, Kilcoy-Chesney, and Mabaruma-Kumaka-Barabina. These drainage areas are characterised by low-lying terrain, proximity to waterways, and inadequate drainage infrastructure. The study identifies how these factors lead to frequent and sometimes costly flooding, especially during periods of peak rainfall and high tides that prevent the opening of drainage sluices. Using rainfall and runoff data, with the analysis of drainage coefficients and discharge capacities, the study examines the existing drainage systems in these regions. It highlights the inefficiencies of undersized drainage structures, inadequate maintenance, and the growing pressure from urbanisation, which has led to the expansion of impervious surfaces, thus increasing runoff. In the case of Mabaruma-Kumaka-Barabina, under- maintained sluices, narrow bridge culverts, and low earthen dams exacerbate the area’s flood vulnerabilities. To address these issues, the study recommends several key interventions. These include upgrading drainage infrastructure by widening internal drains, replacing narrow culverts, installing additional sluices, and using modern technologies like automated pumps and self-actuated sluices. The construction of higher, vegetated embankments and raising the earthen river dams are also recommended to prevent erosion and overtopping during high tides. Monitoring water levels and rainfall data regularly is proposed to inform drainage maintenance and flood prevention efforts. The findings underscore the need for public-private partnerships to maintain drainage systems while engaging the community in flood risk mitigation. By implementing these recommendations, these regions can better manage water flow, reduce the impact of flooding, and improve the quality of life for residents, particularly as climate change continues to pose greater challenges for water management in Guyana.

Keywords : Drainage Coefficient, Exceedance Probability, Flooding, Hydraulic Resistance, Permeability, Polder, Recurrence Interval, Runoff, Self-Actuated Sluices, Saturation, Storage Capacity.

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